If you have had the chance to read about my education, you will notice that I have studied different therapeutic approaches which I use depending on the issues and needs that you have.
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Clients often consult due to a sense of being disconnected from within, they appear uncomfortable, out of balance and as a result, there is suffering. The reasons usually are obvious, however not always enough to “make it better”. We work from the sense of out-of-balance to balance, from discomfort to inner-comfort, from dis-connection to connection (within and, as a result, with others).
The approaches that have been chosen in my career as a psychotherapist have been many, diverse and yet complementary.
Psychoanalysis was my first training approach and through my University years, it had always been the biggest platform for therapists in Buenos Aires. Psychoanalysis’ lense has allowed me to understand the “symptom” as the key element/experience that hides and unveils at the same time.
Gestalt Therapy has helped me understand the value of Identifying the relationship between apparent opposite desires and the opportunity for integration of the parts in play.
Cognitive Psychotherapy I have always been more inclined to a constructivist line as opposed to a behavioral one. In general, I find that it focuses on the particular perception that we have of our experiences and brings a way to identify patterns of distortion and their emotional impact. In Canada I have taken many training sessions related to this field. Among the most important ones for my practice is Self-Regulation Therapy (2012-2014). This form of therapy has helped me to better understand the language of the body from the standpoint of its physiology and its reactions to traumatic stress.
More recently and likely for many years to come, I have been immersed in Compassionate Inquiry as presented by Dr. Gabor Mate’s team. This field combines very thoughtfully all of the approaches I have taken and offers me answers to many of my questions. In my view, this approach builds upon the most human element, that of compassion which is not represented so clearly in other therapeutic approaches. When the client changes the relationship within, healing is taking place and in my opinion, compassion is the key for this profound change.
Clients often consult due to a sense of being disconnected from within, they appear uncomfortable, out of balance and as a result, there is suffering. The reasons usually are obvious, however not always enough to “make it better”. We work from the sense of out-of-balance to balance, from discomfort to inner-comfort, from dis-connection to connection (within and, as a result, with others).
When I work with families, my main focus is on the parents and their own triggers such as stress and discomfort. The exploration of their own childhood is key to renewing and improving the connection with their children of any age. When parents do better in their healing process, the change in the family feels almost magical.
My sessions, I am told, are very dynamic. Together we decide the rhythm and frequency of the sessions.
I strongly suggest to my clients that outside their sessions they should consider engaging in a body practice that will allow the “un-blocking” of the body by utilizing both habitual and non-habitual movements. I suggest yoga, the Feldenkrais Method, regular walks in nature, dancing, and any other activity that invites a conscious movement.
I invite you to explore yourself in this adventure that can lead to profound and long lasting wellbeing.
With great appreciation,
Laura Coogan